Paso Doble Dance Lessons
Feel the Fire and Flair of Paso Doble with Every Step
Learn the Dance of the Bullfighters in Our Paso Doble Classes
Showcase Your Bold Personality and Style—Paso Doble Dance Classes for All Levels
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Paso Doble Dance Lessons in Our Warren Studio
Wave The Red Cape and Do The Paso Doble
The Paso Doble (or pasodoble) translates to ‘double step’ in English. Its classical form is said to have originated in southern France and Spain, inspired by the movements of Spanish bullfights, and the music was often played when the matador was victorious in the arena. The musical structure adapted itself so beautifully to the dance that the villagers danced to the exciting, lively Paso Doble music for hours on end. Traditionally danced forms of Paso Doble are very alive in Spain, and they often use colorful characters of the region and lighthearted subjects as inspiration.
Americans first viewed the Paso Doble when flamenco dancers used this music to dance the role of a bullfighter. It gained popularity around the world (in its ballroom version) since the 1930s, and developed into many different types that adopted elements of the figures, steps, and character of Flamenco dancing. In the ballroom version of the Paso Doble, the gentleman usually portrays the bullfighter, and the lady is his cape, although there are times when a very strong, aggressive action in certain bold movements seems to suggest the actions of the bull.
Paso Doble – A Spanish Dance With Binary Rhythm
The dance form displays the history and dramatic flair of its origin, such as intense emotions, life and death, and so on. The leader often takes on the role of the “matador,” using their arms and upper body to convey strength and power, while the follower takes on the role of the “matador’s cape,” using their arms and upper body to mimic the movements of a cape as they follow the leader.
The Paso Doble moves around the floor are characterized by sharp movements, power, and drama. A most helpful aid in acquiring the proper feeling is to visualize the pageantry of the matadors, as they make their grand entry into the bull ring and feel the attitude that is displayed during the fight. Because of its heavily choreographed stage act, ballroom pasodoble is mostly a competitive dance.
Beginner Paso Doble Dance Classes
Beginner Paso Doble classes at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, Warren, NJ, focus on strong posture, basic footwork, and understanding the dance’s character. You’ll embody the matador or cape with tall posture and controlled movements. Paso Doble means “two step” and is set to a 2/4 march-like tempo. You’ll learn fundamental footwork, such as Sur Place, chassés, promenade, drag, and basic forward and backward steps with heel leads.
The left hand of the male and the right hand of the woman must remain united almost permanently while dancing the Paso Doble. You’ll also practice the Appel, identify musical accents, and start basic arm styling. Simple combinations help build flow and lead-follow connection. A lot of practice and patience are needed to perform the Paso Doble successfully, but our expert instructors will help you master the dance with time.
Advanced Paso Doble Dance Classes
Advanced Paso Doble classes build on foundational skills with dramatic expression, complex figures, and refined technique. You’ll learn complex figures and variations, such as Huit, La Passe, Separation, Coup de Pique, Twist Turns, Spanish Lines, Banderillas, Sixteen, Chasse Cape, and more.
Arm styling, role play, and expressive gestures are used to deepen the performance, and advanced dancers focus on stronger grounding, precise foot articulation, hip and torso engagement, and advanced shaping. You’ll learn to dance full phrases, hold dramatic pauses, and build stamina, while advanced choreographies challenge your timing and storytelling.
Try Paso Doble at Our Dance Studio Today
From wedding dance instruction to a new hobby, or a way to connect with your partner, you’ll learn more, faster, and with more FUN, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios! Give us a call and ask about our Introductory Offer for new students. Our talented and friendly dance instructors in Warren are excited to help you start dancing today!
Group Classes and Private Lessons Available
Whether it’s your first time trying Paso Doble or you’re a professional dancer learning the most advanced movements, we welcome you to take a class with us. Our students fill the dance floor with energy, excitement, and positivity as we explore the ballroom dance together. You can explore various dance competitions through our events page and continue to master the dance.
Our professional instructors are ready to teach you Paso Doble and provide a dance experience you’ll never forget.
Paso Doble dance lessons are available now. You’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first dance!
Ballroom Dance Styles We Teach
Dancing is a great way to express your emotions. Hop on the dance floor and try a ballroom or Latin dance class with us. Get creative and have fun! To learn more about each type of dance and view a demonstration video, simply click on the dance style to learn more. Then give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and be sure to ask about our money-saving introductory offer for new students. Together, we’ll get you started on your personal dance journey and make sure you leave each dance lesson feeling happy and more confident with your dancing skills!
Classes are available for students of all skill levels – from beginners to advanced and all ages. Adults and children are welcome! Fred Astaire ballroom dance lessons are fun, exciting, and a great way to express yourself.
Our exceptional staff is ready to take your dancing journey to the next level. Sign up for an intro class!